Posted on 11/02/2009 7:51:12 AM PST by SmithL
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has complained that he doesn't get to pick his own lieutenant governor, a position he thinks should be more first mate than political detractor – if it must exist at all.
He could soon get his wish.
If Democratic Lt. Gov. John Garamendi wins a special congressional election Tuesday in the Democrat-leaning 10th Congressional District, Schwarzenegger has the power to appoint Garamendi's replacement.
The Republican governor has not tipped his hand. He has the option of choosing a caretaker who will serve out Garamendi's last year. Or he could use the appointment to reward a Republican legislator for working on his behalf in recent years.
"Everything the governor does should send a message," said Steve Merksamer, chief of staff to former Republican Gov. George Deukmejian. "The message that should be sent here is, 'If you stood with me in the past, I'm standing here for you today.' He should choose someone who reflects his policies and priorities and has a demonstrable record of doing that."
Political consultants have thrown out several names as possibilities. Chief among them has been state Sen. Abel Maldonado, a moderate Republican from Santa Maria who provided a crucial budget vote in February and who often advocates on the governor's behalf.
Another possibility is Assemblyman Mike Villines of Clovis, who was replaced as Assembly Republican leader this spring after striking a tax-hike budget compromise with Schwarzenegger and Democrats. For the same reason, some have mentioned ousted Senate Republican Leader Dave Cogdill of Modesto as a possible pick.
But there's a catch: Any nominee must avoid rejection by majorities in the Senate and Assembly, which means Democrats have a huge say.
(Excerpt) Read more at sacbee.com ...
He sold us out, but what else is new.
"Show me just what Mohammed brought that was new, and there you will find only things evil and inhuman, such as his command to spread by the sword the faith he preached." - Manuel II Palelogus
Ray Haynes
anything less is a slap in the face of taxpayers
He’ll probably pick Maldonado; IIRC, he’s been blackballed by the state Republican party, so that’d fit with Arnie.
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